If you have a narcissist in your life, I have no doubt you are feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, confused, manipulated, and tired of the constant scheming. Navigating such a relationship can be incredibly challenging, but today, I want to share some tactics that can help you feel a bit more at ease—well, perhaps not completely at ease, but at least more grounded in your interactions with the narcissist. Whether the narcissist is a parent, friend, co-worker, partner, or sibling, these tips can be invaluable for managing the relationship more successfully.
Tip One: Accept That They Are Unlikely to Change.
This is the first and most crucial step. Many of you know I was a psychotherapist for 20 years, helping people with boundaries, difficult relationships, and anxiety. One of my clients once shared a piece of dating advice she received: to put “as is” on a person’s forehead. This concept is brilliant and should be applied not only in dating but to anyone, especially narcissists. Remember, if a person has a personality disorder, their behavior is pervasive and unlikely to change. So, when interacting with them, keep in mind that you are dealing with them as they are, not as you hope they will become.
Tip Two: Don’t Take Anything Personally.
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